Live theater is a big part of Fayetteville's arts scene, and every Broadway season brings another reason to plan a night downtown. The Walton Arts Center's 2026/27 Broadway Series features six nationally touring productions, including five Arkansas premieres, with performances running from September through July.
One of the highlights of Fayetteville's arts and entertainment scene, the Broadway Series draws visitors from across Arkansas and neighboring states throughout the season. Many theatergoers make an evening of it by enjoying dinner on Dickson Street, exploring downtown Fayetteville or extending their visit with an overnight stay. It's one of the best ways to experience Fayetteville's vibrant arts, dining and nightlife scene all in one trip.
In addition to the six-show Broadway Series, this season also features five Broadway Add-On performances, giving audiences even more opportunities to experience nationally touring productions without leaving Northwest Arkansas.
The 2026/27 Broadway Series begins in September 2026 and continues through July 2027. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or looking for an unforgettable night out, there's a performance waiting for you at Walton Arts Center.
2026/27 Broadway Series
The Outsiders | September 1–6, 2026 (Arkansas Premiere)
The winner of four 2024 Tony Awards®, including best musical, is The Outsiders. This classic coming-of-age story takes you to Tulsa, Oklahoma in 1967, where Ponyboy Curtis, his best friend Johnny Cade and their family of Greaser “outsiders” dream about who they want to become in a world that will never accept them. The Outsiders features Danya Taymor’s Tony Award-winning direction that’s “refreshing, gritty and endlessly effective” (The New York Times). With “high-octane choreography” (New York Magazine), The Outsiders has been described as “more pulse-pounding than anything else on Broadway!” (Time Out New York).
Recommended for ages 10 and up.
Buena Vista Social Club™ | December 15–20, 2026 (Arkansas Premiere)
It’s been years since legendary singer Omara Portuondo last entered a recording studio. Once known as the “Queen of Feeling,” her voice was celebrated throughout Cuba – until she vanished from the spotlight. But when an ambitious young record producer brings her a rare opportunity, the elusive diva must finally reckon with her past.
Hailed as a “jaw-dropping, soul-stirring must see” (The Washington Post), the Tony® and Grammy® award-winning Buena Vista Social Club™ is a journey through music and memory into the beating heart of Havana. A world-class company brings the story of the iconic album to thrilling life in this tale of big dreams, second changes and music that needs no translation.
Recommended for ages 8 and up.
The Notebook | February 24–28, 2027 (Arkansas Premiere)
Based on the best-selling novel that inspired the iconic film, The Notebook tells the story of Allie and Noah, both from different worlds, who share a lifetime of love despite the forces that threaten to pull them apart. “Full of butterfly-inducing highs and beautiful songs” (Entertainment Weekly), The Notebook is a deeply moving portrait of the enduring power of love.
Chris Jones of the Chicago Tribune says The Notebook is “absolutely gorgeous, not to be missed,” and The New York Daily News calls it “a love story for the ages.”
The Notebook is directed by Michael Greif (Dear Evan Hansen, Next to Normal, RENT) and Schele Williams (The Wiz, Aida), and features music and lyrics by multi-Platinum® singer-songwriter Ingrid Michaelson, book by Bekah Brunstetter (NBC’s “This is Us”) and choreography by Katie Spelman.
Recommended for ages 10 and up.
The Sound of Music | April 13–18, 2027
For 65 years, The Sound of Music has been one of our “favorite things.” With its timeless story and irresistibly charming score, this Rogers & Hammerstein classic isn’t just meant to be enjoyed – it's meant to be shared. Directed by three-time Tony Award® winner Jack O’Brien (Hairspray), this vibrant and romantic tale of Maria and the von Trapp family features beloved songs like “Do-Re-Me,” “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” and Edelweiss.”
Recommended for ages 7 and up.
Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical | May 25–30, 2027 (Arkansas Premiere)
How did a dead body, a fake love letter and – of people – Ian Fleming turn the tide of WWII? Olivier Award® winner for best new musical and a 2025 Tony® winner, Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical is the best-reviewed show in West End history with 88 five-star reviews and the No. 1 Broadway show of 2025 (Entertainment Weekly).
It’s 1943 and the Allies are on the ropes. Luckily, they’re about to gamble our futures on a stolen corpse. Singin’ In the Rain meets Strangers on a Train, it’s the fast-paced, hilarious true story of the secret mission that won WWII.
Recommended for ages 5 and up.
Just in Time | July 6–11, 2027 (Arkansas Premiere)
Brilliant. Complicated. Darin.
Just In Time, the acclaimed "runaway hit" (Variety) that is taking Broadway by storm, will make a splash in Northwest Arkansas. An “utterly electrifying” (Entertainment Weekly) new musical, Just In Time brings to life the story of Bobby Darin, the legendary singer whose short but remarkable journey took him from teen idol to global sensation. Packed with his biggest hits, including “Beyond the Sea,” “Mack the Knife,” “Splish Splash” and “Dream Lover,” Just In Time is “a helluva good time at the theater” (Time Out) and a “wallop of joy” (NY Post).
Recommended for ages 10 and up.
Broadway Add-On Performances
Dirty Dancing | October 21–25, 2026
Jersey Boys | November 27–29, 2026
Hadestown | Feb. 5-7, 2027
Kinky Boots | April 30–May 2, 2027
Beetlejuice | June 4–6, 2027
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Walton Arts Center Broadway Series begin?
The 2026/27 Broadway Series begins in September 2026 with The Outsiders and continues through July 2027, bringing nationally touring productions to downtown Fayetteville throughout the season.
Where is Walton Arts Center located?
Walton Arts Center is located in the heart of downtown Fayetteville at 495 W. Dickson Street, just steps from restaurants, shops, entertainment and the University of Arkansas campus.
How do I buy tickets for Broadway shows in Fayetteville?
Tickets can be purchased through the Walton Arts Center Box Office or online. Broadway Series subscribers receive the best seating options and early access to select performances.
Is there parking at Walton Arts Center?
Yes. Several public parking garages, surface lots and on-street parking options are available within a short walk of Walton Arts Center. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early, especially on performance nights.
What restaurants are near Walton Arts Center?
Downtown Fayetteville offers dozens of restaurants within walking distance of Walton Arts Center. Popular choices include Bordinos, Theo's, Doe’s Eat Place, Farrell’s Lounge, The Leroy, and Hammontree's.
Can I make a weekend trip out of a Broadway show?
Absolutely! Many visitors pair a Broadway performance with shopping on Dickson Street, exploring the Fayetteville Square, visiting local attractions or spending the night at one of Fayetteville's hotels.
Are Broadway shows at Walton Arts Center family-friendly?
Many Broadway productions are appropriate for families, though recommended ages vary by show. Check the individual show's page for age recommendations and content advisories before purchasing tickets.
